Food Farm Gardens

Welcome to Food Farm Gardens

ffga@marlinyard.org ffg-csa@marlinyard.org Mon - Fr 8:00 am - 4:00 pm , Sat 9:00 - 1:00pm, Sunday - CLOSED

Gardens FAQ

Community Gardens Program - Frequently Asked Questions

Everything You Need to Know About FFG’s Community Garden Plots

General Community Gardens Questions

What are FFG's Community Gardens?

FFG’s Community Gardens are individual plot rentals at our heritage Plantation Succour site where community members can grow their own organic vegetables. The terraced plots use historic slave walls as boundaries, combining sustainable agriculture with cultural preservation on 300+ year-old plantation land.

Community Gardens: You rent a plot and grow your own vegetables, keeping 100% of your harvest.

CSA Program: You purchase a share and receive boxes of vegetables grown by our partner farmers. Both programs can be combined – many members do both!

All plots are located at Plantation Succour, our 80,000m² heritage site in Sint Maarten. The gardens feature terraced plots built along natural contours using authentic volcanic boulder retaining walls and historic slave wall boundaries.

Our gardens integrate heritage preservation with sustainable agriculture. You’re not just growing food – you’re participating in transforming a former plantation site into a hub for food sovereignty while preserving 300+ year-old cultural heritage.

Plot Sizes & Availability

What plot sizes are available?

We offer multiple plot sizes to fit different needs:

  • Starter Plots: 30m² (perfect for beginners)
  • Family Plots: 50m² (ideal for families of 3-4)
  • Expanded Plots: 60m² (for experienced gardeners)
  • Premium Plots: 100m² (for serious food production)

Batch 1 (2026 launch): 52 plots total

  • 30 Starter Plots (30m²)
  • 22 Family Plots (50m²)

 

Yes, subject to availability! Many members start with one plot and expand as they gain experience. Priority is given to new members first, then existing members can request additional plots.

Yes, we maintain a waiting list when plots are full. FFGA membership required to join the waitlist. Estimated wait times are updated quarterly, and members receive priority notifications when plots become available.

Pricing & Membership

How much does it cost to rent a plot?
  1. FFGA Membership Fee: XCG 72 ($40)/year (required for all plot renters)
  2. Plot Rental Fee: Based on size
    • Starter (30m²): XCG 189 ($105)/year
    • Family (50m²): XCG 315 ($175)/year
    • Expanded (60m²): XCG 378 ($210)/year
    • Premium (100m²): XCG 630 ($350)/year

We accept XCG (Caribbean Guilders) as preferred currency. USD at current exchange rates (XCG 1.80 = $1 USD) and Euros at daily exchange rate. Both fees must be paid in advance upon plot assignment. 

Payment can be done by bank transfer, PIN, cash and via PayPal.

  • Prepared terraced growing space with organic soil amendments
  • Basic water access points for member-installed irrigation systems
  • Shared tool storage and equipment rental access
  • Composting facilities and organic waste processing
  • Hurricane-resistant storage rental options
  • Heritage site access for educational and cultural activities
  • Water system consultation and installation guidance

Optional add-ons:

  • IBC rainwater harvesting containers: Purchase and installation assistance available
  • Drip irrigation consultation: System design and setup guidance
  • Tool rental: Professional-grade equipment available
  • Hurricane-resistant storage: Individual units for rent
  • Processing workshops: Canning, preserving, value-added production
  • Composting services: Premium organic matter for soil enhancement
  • Water system maintenance: Ongoing support and troubleshooting

Water independence package:

  • IBC containers at competitive group pricing
  • Installation service with technical support
  • Irrigation design consultation for optimal water efficiency
  • Water conservation training through HAICI School integration

Infrastructure & Facilities

What infrastructure is provided?
  • Terraced plots with volcanic boulder retaining walls
  • Basic water access points for member-installed irrigation systems
  • Shared tool storage and equipment library
  • Composting facilities for organic waste processing
  • Community pavilion for gatherings and workshops
  • Heritage preservation zone with cultural interpretation
  • Emergency vehicle access and safety protocols
  • IBC container installation support and water system consultation available

Member-managed systems:

  • Individual irrigation – members design and install their own drip systems
  • Rainwater harvesting – IBC containers available for purchase with installation assistance
  • Water independence – full control over your plot’s water management

Technical support – guidance and workshops on efficient irrigation design

Member-managed water systems:

  • IBC rainwater harvesting containers available for purchase through FFG
  • Professional installation assistance and setup guidance provided
  • Water conservation training and best practices workshops included
  • Individual water management – members responsible for their own irrigation needs
  • Drip irrigation consultation available for efficient water use planning
  • System maintenance support and troubleshooting assistance

Water independence benefits:

  • Full control over your water usage and timing
  • Sustainable rainwater collection reducing dependence on municipal water
  • Cost-effective long-term water solution for your plot
  • Educational opportunity to learn water conservation techniques
  • Scalable system – add more containers as your garden grows

Optional services:

  • IBC container supply at competitive group pricing
  • Installation assistance from experienced technicians
  • System design consultation for optimal rainwater collection
  • Maintenance workshops for long-term system care
  • Water conservation education integrated with HAICI School programs

Shared storage: Basic tool storage included in rental

Individual storage: Hurricane-resistant containers available for rent

Processing space: Shared facilities for value-added production

Composting: Community composting system for organic waste

Yes! Universal access design:

  • 2.5-3 meter wide access roads for vehicles and equipment
  • Rock stairs for plot access where needed
  • Emergency vehicle routes throughout the site
  • Accessible pathways to shared facilities

Growing Guidelines & Standards

What can I grow in my plot?

Encouraged crops:

  • Traditional Caribbean vegetables (okra, callaloo, dasheen, yam and more)
  • Leafy greens (lettuce, spinach, kale, herbs, cabbage and more)
  • Fruiting vegetables (tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, pumkin and more)
  • Root vegetables (sweet potatoes, carrots, beets and more)
  • Legumes (beans, peas, lentils and more)

Prohibited:

  • Cannabis or psychoactive plants (!)
  • Invasive species
  • Crops requiring synthetic pesticides
  • Unapproved experimental varieties

Strict organic standards:

  • No synthetic pesticides or herbicides permitted (!)
  • Organic fertilizers only – compost, manure, approved natural inputs
  • Integrated pest management using beneficial insects
  • Soil health maintenance through cover crops and rotation
  • Water conservation mandatory practices

Perennial crops require approval:

  • Dwarf fruit trees permitted with advance approval
  • Heritage varieties encouraged (mango, breadfruit, citrus)
  • Spacing requirements to avoid shading neighboring plots
  • Long-term commitment expected for tree crops

Community composting system:

  • Shared facilities for organic waste processing
  • Finished compost available for plot enhancement
  • Training provided on proper composting techniques
  • Individual composting allowed within plot space limits

Animals & Livestock

Can I keep animals in my plot?

Limited livestock permitted with approval:

  • Small chickens/ducks: Maximum 3-5 birds with proper housing
  • Goats: 1-2 miniature goats with adequate fencing
  • Beekeeping: Permitted with training and safety protocols

Pet policy:

  • Dogs/cats welcome with responsible ownership
  • Leash requirements and waste cleanup mandatory
  • Registration required with vaccination records
  • Three-strike policy for behavioral issues

Strict welfare standards:

  • Adequate housing and protection from weather
  • Proper nutrition and fresh water access
  • Veterinary care and health monitoring
  • Heritage-appropriate housing that fits site aesthetics
  • Neighbor consideration regarding noise and odors

Structures & Improvements

Can I build structures on my plot?

Limited structures permitted:

  • Maximum 25% of plot area for all structures combined
  • Small tool sheds: Up to 2m² with approval
  • Greenhouse/hoop houses: Temporary structures encouraged
  • Trellises and supports: For climbing crops
  • Rainwater collection: Small-scale systems permitted

Heritage-appropriate design:

  • Natural materials preferred (wood, bamboo, stone)
  • Earth tones and colors that blend with landscape
  • Hurricane-resistant construction required
  • Removable structures preferred over permanent installations
  • Advance approval required for all construction

Current basic utilities:

  • Limited water access – members must rely on rainwater harvesting systems
  • No electrical connections to individual plots
  • Solar charging stations available in common areas
  • Composting toilets in shared facilities

Water independence required:

  • Rainwater harvesting mandatory – IBC containers available for purchase
  • No municipal water available to individual plots
  • Installation assistance provided for member-purchased water systems
  • Water conservation training essential for plot success

Future infrastructure development:

  • Water tank system planned – 20,000L tanks at hilltop locations
  • Gravity-fed irrigation will be available once tank system is installed
  • Timeline: Not near future – dependent on funding and infrastructure development
  • Current members must plan for complete water self-sufficiency

What this means for you:

  • Budget for IBC containers and rainwater collection system
  • Plan for dry season water storage and conservation
  • Learn water-efficient growing techniques and drought-resistant crops
  • Community support available for water system design and installation

Hurricane Preparedness

What happens during hurricane season?

Comprehensive preparedness:

  • Crop protection protocols and hurricane-resistant varieties
  • Secure storage requirements for tools and materials
  • Emergency access restrictions during active threats
  • Post-storm assessment and recovery support
  • Community mutual aid networks for cleanup and replanting

Protection measures:

  • Terraced design reduces erosion and water damage
  • Volcanic boulder walls provide wind protection
  • Drainage systems prevent flooding
  • Emergency protocols for securing loose materials
  • Rapid recovery plans for post-storm replanting

Recovery assistance:

  • Damage assessment and repair coordination
  • Emergency seed and plant distribution
  • Volunteer work crews for cleanup efforts
  • Extended deadlines for plot maintenance requirements
  • Community support networks for mutual aid

Community & Social Aspects

What community activities are included?

Regular community events:

  • Monthly workshops on organic gardening techniques
  • Seasonal celebrations and harvest festivals
  • Heritage education tours and cultural programs
  • Skill-sharing sessions among experienced gardeners
  • Children’s programs and family activities

Family-friendly environment:

  • Children welcome with adult supervision
  • Educational programs about sustainable agriculture
  • Youth garden plots available for schools and groups
  • Heritage education connecting children to cultural history
  • Safety protocols for child participation

Community building:

  • Monthly member meetings for updates and planning
  • WhatsApp groups for daily communication
  • Skill-sharing networks for experienced guidance
  • Volunteer opportunities for site maintenance and events
  • Mentorship programs pairing new and experienced gardeners

Rules & Responsibilities

What are my responsibilities as a plot renter?

Plot maintenance:

  • 75% active cultivation requirement at all times
  • Weed control and general plot cleanliness
  • Water conservation and efficient irrigation practices
  • Organic standards compliance and soil health maintenance
  • Respect for neighbors and shared spaces

Community participation:

  • Annual volunteer hours for site maintenance (minimum 10 hours)
  • Workshop attendance for ongoing education
  • Heritage preservation respect and participation
  • Emergency preparedness and mutual aid support

Support systems:

  • Temporary assistance during illness or travel
  • Volunteer networks for emergency help
  • Plot-sharing arrangements with other members
  • Extended deadlines for legitimate hardships
  • Plot transfer options if permanent changes needed

Sales opportunities:

  • The Keys Market priority access for members
  • Keep 90% of sales (10% market fee)
  • Community-first policy – members get first access to fresh produce
  • Value-added products encouraged (preserves, processed goods)
  • Cooperative marketing opportunities with other plot holders

Education & Training

What training is provided?

Comprehensive education program:

  • Organic gardening techniques and pest management
  • Heritage crop cultivation and seed saving
  • Composting and soil health improvement methods
  • Water conservation and efficient irrigation
  • Hurricane preparedness and crop protection
  • Food preservation and value-added processing

Required training:

  • Orientation session before plot assignment
  • Organic standards workshop within first month
  • Safety protocols and emergency procedures
  • Heritage preservation awareness and respect

Optional education:

  • Advanced techniques workshops throughout the year
  • HAICI School integration for deeper agricultural education
  • Cultural programs about plantation history and Caribbean heritage

Knowledge sharing encouraged:

  • Experienced members can lead workshops
  • Mentorship programs for new gardeners
  • Skill demonstrations during community events
  • Guest expert opportunities for specialized knowledge
  • Youth education programs and school partnerships

Environmental Impact

How do the gardens support sustainability?

Environmental benefits:

  • Organic practices improve soil health and biodiversity
  • Water conservation through efficient irrigation
  • Composting programs reduce waste and create soil amendments
  • Heritage variety preservation maintains genetic diversity
  • Carbon sequestration through healthy soil practices

Comprehensive waste systems:

  • Composting facilities for all organic garden waste
  • Recycling programs for containers and materials
  • Minimal packaging policies for inputs and supplies
  • Reuse initiatives for tools and infrastructure
  • Education programs on waste reduction

Getting Started

How do I apply for a plot?

Application process:

  1. Join FFGA with annual membership fee (XCG 72/$40)
  2. Complete plot application with size preference and experience level
  3. Attend orientation session at Plantation Succour
  4. Pay plot rental fee upon assignment
  5. Begin gardening with community support and guidance

Click here for membership registration

Seasonal timing:

  • Plot assignments: Available year-round based on availability
  • Best planting season: October-November for peak growing
  • Hurricane season: June-November with adapted crop selection
  • Year-round growing: Possible with proper planning and varieties

Beginner support:

  • Starter plots designed for learning (30m²)
  • Mentorship program pairing with experienced gardeners
  • Basic training included in orientation
  • Ongoing workshops for skill development
  • Community support and encouragement

Contact & Support

Who do I contact with questions?

Community Gardens: ffga@marlinyard.org
WhatsApp: +31 850041137
Office: Vicky’s Keys Volunteer Center i/c FFG Community Gardens,  Plantation Succour, The Keys road 2-8, lane 3, Upper Prince’s Quarter, Sint Maarten

Support available:

  • Site coordinator for technical assistance
  • Peer support through community networks
  • Conflict resolution for neighbor disputes
  • Emergency assistance during crises
  • Flexible solutions for individual challenges

Community input welcome:

  • Monthly member meetings for direct feedback
  • Suggestion box at community pavilion
  • Annual surveys for program improvement
  • Committee participation in planning and development
  • Open communication with site management
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